PROTEIN
1. Context
The 2024 Nobel Prize for Chemistry was jointly awarded to David Baker for his work on computational protein design and to Demis Hassabis and John Jumper for developing technologies to predict the structure of proteins.
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2. What is Protein?
- Proteins are large, complex molecules that play many critical roles in the body. They are made up of long chains of amino acids, which are organic compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sometimes sulfur
- Life, as we understand it, depends on proteins, which are composed of amino acids. Although numerous amino acids exist in nature, just 20 of them, combined in various ways, form all the proteins present in the human body and most living organisms.
- Amino acids play essential roles in providing structural support in tissues, acting as catalysts in biochemical reactions, transporting molecules across biological membranes, regulating muscle contractions that enable movement and heartbeat, and facilitating communication between cells to carry out their functions
3. What is Protein Folding?
- The protein-folding problem refers to the challenge of predicting a protein's three-dimensional (3D) structure based solely on its amino acid sequence.
- A protein possesses multiple identities, one of which is determined by the arrangement of its amino acids in three-dimensional space—its 3D structure. In 1962, researchers John Kendrew and Max Perutz from the University of Cambridge were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for creating the first 3D models of hemoglobin and myoglobin, both proteins, through X-ray crystallography.
- A significant breakthrough occurred in 1969 when scientists discovered that a protein does not attempt to adopt various shapes; instead, it inherently knows the specific shape it needs to achieve and swiftly folds itself accordingly. This enigmatic ability of the protein is referred to as the protein-folding problem.
- By the late 2010s, scientists had determined the structures of approximately 170,000 proteins—an impressive number, yet still a fraction compared to the estimated 200 million proteins found in nature. However, this scenario dramatically changed around 2018.
- Proteins: These are long chains of amino acids that fold into specific shapes, which determine their functions. The sequence of amino acids (the primary structure) dictates how the protein folds into its secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures
- Proteins can have hundreds or thousands of amino acids, leading to an enormous number of possible configurations.
- The process of folding involves many interactions (hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, ionic bonds, etc.) and is influenced by the protein's environment
- Proteins do not fold randomly; they often follow specific pathways to reach their final functional form.
- Understanding these pathways is crucial for predicting the folded structure from the amino acid sequence.
- Improper folding can lead to non-functional proteins or proteins that aggregate, which can cause diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and certain types of cancer.
- Understanding how proteins fold correctly is essential for developing treatments for these conditions.
4. What is AlphaFold?
AlphaFold is an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) program developed by DeepMind, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. Its primary purpose is to predict protein structures with remarkable accuracy based on their amino acid sequences.
Here’s a detailed overview of AlphaFold:
- The protein-folding problem has been a long-standing challenge in biology, as understanding a protein's 3D structure is crucial for elucidating its function and role in various biological processes.
- AlphaFold was first introduced in 2018 and gained significant attention for its performance in the Critical Assessment of protein Structure Prediction (CASP) competition, where it demonstrated the ability to predict protein structures more accurately than any previous method.
- AlphaFold employs deep learning techniques, specifically neural networks, to predict the spatial arrangement of atoms in a protein.
- It analyzes patterns in known protein structures from databases to learn how amino acid sequences correspond to their respective 3D shapes
- AlphaFold has achieved a level of accuracy comparable to experimental methods, such as X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, which are traditionally used to determine protein structures.
- It can predict structures for proteins that are difficult to study experimentally, thus expanding the understanding of biology.
- The program has the potential to accelerate research in various fields, including drug discovery, synthetic biology, and disease understanding.
- By providing insights into protein functions and interactions, AlphaFold can aid in the development of new therapies and treatments
5. Design of Protein
- Protein design is the process of creating new proteins or modifying existing ones to achieve specific functions or characteristics. This field combines principles from biochemistry, molecular biology, and computational biology, enabling researchers to manipulate protein structures and functions
- The design can be aimed at creating proteins with desired traits, such as increased stability, enhanced enzymatic activity, or specific binding capabilities
- Rational Design: Involves using knowledge of protein structures and functions to make targeted changes to specific amino acids in a protein sequence.
- Directed Evolution: This method mimics natural selection by introducing random mutations in a protein and then screening for variants with improved functions
Applications:
- Therapeutics: Designing proteins for use as drugs, such as antibodies that target specific diseases or enzymes that facilitate metabolic processes.
- Industrial Uses: Creating enzymes that work efficiently under extreme conditions for use in manufacturing processes.
- Biotechnology: Developing proteins for applications in biofuels, agriculture, and environmental remediation.
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For Prelims: Current events of national and international importance.
For Mains: General Studies III: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life
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Previous Year Questions
1.In the context of vaccines manufactured to prevent COVID-19 pandemic,
consider the following statements : (UPSC CSE 2022)
1. The Serum Institute of India produced COVID-19 vaccine named Covishield using mRNA platform.
2. Sputnik V vaccine is manufactured using vector based platform.
3. COVAXIN is an inactivated pathogen based vaccine.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer (B)
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Source: The Hindu
MIDDLE-INCOME TRAP
1. Context
The World Development Report 2024 — authored by the World Bank — calls attention to the phenomenon of the “middle-income” trap, or the slowing down of growth rates as incomes increase. The World Bank estimates a stagnation of income per capita when economies reach a level of per capita incomes 11% of that of the U.S., hindering their journey to high-income status
2. What is the Middle Income Trap?
The Middle Income Trap refers to a situation where a country's economy grows rapidly enough to transition from low-income to middle-income status but then struggles to advance further to high-income levels. The country gets "trapped" because it is unable to sustain the factors that drove its earlier growth and fails to develop new competitive advantages that high-income countries typically possess.
Here are key aspects of the Middle Income Trap:
- Many developing nations experience initial growth by relying on low-cost labor, exporting goods, and foreign direct investment (FDI). This leads to a rise in income, but these drivers eventually lose their effectiveness as wages increase and labor becomes more expensive
- As wages rise, the country can no longer compete with lower-income countries in labor-intensive industries. At the same time, it lacks the innovation, technological development, and productivity gains needed to compete with high-income countries
- Without significant improvements in education, infrastructure, innovation, and governance, the economy's productivity growth stagnates.
- Middle-income countries often rely heavily on technology imports rather than developing their own, which limits their capacity to innovate and compete globally
- To avoid or escape the middle-income trap, a country typically needs to shift towards higher value-added industries, improve governance, invest in education and infrastructure, and foster innovation and entrepreneurship
- Brazil and South Africa are often cited as examples of countries that have struggled to break through the middle-income barrier. Both have achieved middle-income status but face challenges in diversifying their economies and boosting productivity
3. What are the strategies to escape the middle-income trap?
- 3i Strategy: Emphasize investment, integration of global technologies, and fostering innovation. Nations that successfully reached high-income status effectively implemented these principles.
- Government Intervention: In South Korea, the government played a crucial role by guiding private enterprises and assisting successful firms with technological access. Inefficient companies were allowed to collapse, enhancing overall productivity.
- Export-Led Growth: South Korea's economic expansion was largely driven by manufacturing exports. While this approach is less viable today due to slowing global trade growth, it remains a valuable lesson.
- Targeted Industry Support: Chile's government provided specific assistance to its natural resource sectors, such as the salmon industry, to stimulate economic development
4. What are the economic challenges facing India?
- Wage stagnation: Despite India's real GDP growth rate being projected at 7%, wages have not increased at the same rate. Regular workers saw nominal wage growth of approximately 5%, while casual workers experienced a 7% increase. However, with inflation hovering around 5%, real wage growth has been minimal, reducing consumption demand.
- Manufacturing stagnation: The manufacturing sector has failed to grow significantly, and following the pandemic, many workers have moved back to agriculture and other low-productivity sectors, undoing progress in structural transformation.
- Influence of billionaires: India’s wealthy business elites are perceived as having close ties with the government, yet their investment levels remain low, contributing to slower economic growth.
- Challenges in global exports: Export opportunities are constrained due to rising global protectionism and declining demand in developed nations, affecting India's prospects for export-driven growth.
- Premature deindustrialization: Manufacturing has diminished as a primary driver of growth, and it remains uncertain whether the service sector can effectively take its place
5. What should be done by India to escape the middle-income trap?
- Implement the "3i" strategy: India should prioritize investment, the integration of global technologies, and innovation. These elements were crucial to South Korea's success, where businesses used technological advancements and innovation to fuel economic growth.
- Adapt to global economic changes: While South Korea’s model of manufacturing exports drove its growth, it may not be as feasible for India today, given the slowdown in global export growth. India must acknowledge these shifts and explore new strategies for growth, while addressing the issues in its manufacturing sector.
- Preserve democratic values: Unlike the authoritarian regimes in South Korea and Chile, which curtailed labor movements, India must remain committed to its democratic values. While the government should actively support economic growth, it must also ensure fairness, protect labor rights, and uphold democratic principles
6.Middle-Income Trap: Current Status
- Economic growth in a country is often driven by factors such as export competitiveness (e.g., low wages) or abundant natural resources. As the economy grows, per capita income also rises.
- However, over time, the initial competitive advantages that fueled growth can diminish, such as when wages increase. If the economy does not undergo structural transformations, growth may slow down, stall, or even reverse, leading to stagnant income levels.
- Population stabilization plays a role as well—if the population continues to grow, the per capita income may increase too slowly to have a meaningful impact on living standards.
- Several countries in Southeast Asia (like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia), Africa (such as South Africa), and Latin America (e.g., Brazil) are currently experiencing this phenomenon, which hinders their progress from middle-income to high-income status.
- From 1960 to 2010, only 15 out of 101 middle-income economies successfully transitioned to high-income status, including Japan, Singapore, and South Korea.
7. Way Forward
Achieving the goal of making India a developed nation and transitioning to a high-income economy by 2047 is a significant challenge. Various domestic and global factors put India at risk of falling into the Middle-Income Trap.
The coming 25 years will be critical in deciding whether India successfully evolves into a high-income economy or becomes another example of a country stuck in the Middle-Income Trap
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For Prelims: Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR), Employment Rate (ER), Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), and Labour Force.
For Mains: 1. Discuss the significance of the Labor Force Participation Rate (LFPR) as a critical labor market indicator in the context of economic development and policy formulation. (250 words).
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Previous year Question1. In India, which one of the following compiles information on industrial disputes, closures, retrenchments, and lay-offs in factories employing workers? (UPSC 2022)
A. Central Statistics Office
B. Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
C. Labour Bureau
D. National Technical Manpower Information System
Answer: C
2. Which of the following brings out the 'Consumer Price Index Number for Industrial Workers'? (UPSC 2015)
A. The Reserve Bank of India
B. The Department of Economic Affairs
C. The Labour Bureau
D. The Department of Personnel and Training
Answer: C
3. International Labour Organization's Conventions 138 and 182 are related to (UPSC 2018)
A. Child labour
B. Adaptation of agricultural practices to global climate change
C. Regulation of food prices and food
D. Security
Answer: A
4. Which of the following statements about the employment situation in India according to the periodic Labour Force Survey 2017-18 is/are correct? (UPSC CAPF 2020)
1. Construction sector gave employment to nearly one-tenth of the urban male workforce in India.
2. Nearly one-fourth of urban female workers in India were working in the manufacturing sector.
3. One-fourth of rural female workers in India were engaged in the agriculture sector.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 2 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: B
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Source: The Hindu
POLITICAL PARTIES AND SYMBOLS
1. Context
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) founder Sharad Pawar has filed a plea in the Supreme Court, seeking a direction to restrain the Ajit Pawar faction from using the ‘clock’ symbol in the upcoming assembly polls in Maharashtra.
2. Specifications of Election Symbols
Under the provisions of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968 (Symbols Order) by the Election Commission of India (ECI), parties are categorized as either 'national' or 'state' parties. The criteria for recognition at the State level include:
(a) Winning one Lok Sabha seat for every 25 seats or 3% of Legislative Assembly seats, or
(b) Winning one Lok Sabha or two Assembly seats along with 6% of votes polled, or
(c) Securing 8% of votes polled in a general election.
- Symbols are allocated to political parties and contesting candidates according to the provisions of the Symbols Order by the ECI. In a democracy where a significant portion of the population is illiterate, symbols play a vital role in the voting process. A recognized political party is assigned a reserved symbol that is not allotted to any other candidate in any constituency.
- For registered but unrecognised political parties, one of the free symbols is allotted as a common symbol during an election if that party contests in two Lok Sabha constituencies or in 5% of seats in the Assembly of a State, as applicable.
3. Allocation of Common Symbols
According to Rule 10B of the Symbols Order, a concession of a common free symbol is granted to a 'registered unrecognised party' for two general elections. To be eligible for a common symbol in subsequent elections, the party must have secured at least 1% of votes polled in the State during the previous election when availing of this facility. The party must apply for a symbol within six months before the expiry of the Lok Sabha or State Assembly term and symbols are allotted on a 'first-come-first-served' basis.
- Case of Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK) Despite securing more than 1% of votes in the last two elections with the common symbol 'Ganna Kisan', the NTK applied for the symbol only in February 2024. The Election Commission of India (ECI) allotted the symbol to the Bharatiya Praja Aikyata Party (BPAP), which had applied earlier based on the 'first-come-first-served' rule. Notably, the BPAP has not contested elections in Tamil Nadu previously.
- The case of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) was denied the allotment of a common symbol because it failed to secure 1% of votes polled in the 2021 elections to the State Legislative Assembly. Despite having one Lok Sabha MP and four MLAs in Tamil Nadu contesting on the 'Pot' symbol in the 2019 and 2021 elections, the VCK's application for a common symbol was declined.
4. Addressing Symbol Allocation Issues
The Election Commission of India (ECI) should conduct a comprehensive review of the existing rules governing symbol allocation to ensure fairness and transparency in the process.
- Consideration of Electoral Performance: The ECI should consider amending the rules to give due weightage to the electoral performance of registered unrecognised parties. Parties that secure at least 1% of votes polled in a previous election or have elected representatives in the Lok Sabha or State Assembly should be eligible for the allocation of a common symbol of their choice.
- Ensuring Voter Understanding: To enhance voter understanding and trust in the electoral process, the ECI should ensure that decisions regarding symbol allocation are made in a manner that is easily comprehensible to the average voter. The current scenario, where parties with significant voter support are denied their preferred symbols, can be perplexing and may undermine confidence in the electoral system.
- Fair Representation: Amending the rules to allow registered unrecognised parties with a certain threshold of electoral support or elected representatives to choose a common symbol would promote fair representation in the democratic process. This would ensure that parties with genuine voter support are not disadvantaged due to procedural constraints.
- Strengthening Democratic Processes: By revising the rules to account for past electoral performance and representation, the ECI can contribute to strengthening democratic processes and fostering inclusivity in the political landscape. Fair and transparent symbol allocation mechanisms are essential for upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring equal opportunities for all political parties.
5. The Way Forward
By implementing the reforms, the ECI can create a more equitable and transparent system for allocating election symbols, fostering a more vibrant and inclusive Indian democracy.
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For Prelims: Election Commission of India, Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968
For Mains:
1. What is the significance of election symbols in a democracy with a large illiterate population? How can the Election Commission of India (ECI) balance the need for stability with fostering a vibrant political landscape through its symbol allocation policies? (250 Words)
2. A political party with a significant vote share is denied its preferred symbol due to a technicality. This can lead to confusion among voters and potentially undermine their trust in the electoral process. How can the ECI uphold ethical principles and ensure public confidence in its decisions regarding symbol allocation? (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC 2017) 1. The Election Commission of India is a five-member body.
2. Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election schedule for the conduct of both general elections and bye-elections.
3. Election Commission resolves the disputes relating to splits/mergers of recognised political parties.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 only B. 2 only C. 2 and 3 only D. 3 only 2. Consider the following statements : (UPSC 2021) 1. In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies.
2. In the 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies.
3. As per the- existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies, his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her in the event of him/her winning in all the constituencies.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only B. 2 only C. 1 and 3 D. 2 and 3
Answers: 1-D, 2-B Mains 1. In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India? (UPSC 2018) |
Source: The Hindu
ELECTRIC VEHICLES
1. Context
The Biden administration has raised concerns that Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) could pose national security risks due to the potential misuse of the software these vehicles rely on. EVs rely on connected technologies to enable features such as autopilot, auto-park etc
2. What are Electric Vehicles?
- An E-vehicle or Electric Vehicle is one that needs an electric motor to generate power and function instead of an internal-combustion engine that generates power by burning a mix of gases and fuel.
- Electric Vehicles have a battery that can be charged by an electric supply.
- This electric energy is used to run the motor. There is a hybrid electric vehicle as well, which means a combination of an electric motor and a combustion engine.
3. Types of Electric Vehicles
- Plug-in electric – Such Electric Vehicles run purely on electricity, and it is powered when it is plugged in to charge. They don’t produce emissions like petrol or diesel.
- Plug-in hybrid – Their primary source of power is electricity, but these vehicles also have a fuel engine. These cars produce emissions only when they run on fuel engines but not when they run on electricity.
- Hybrid-electric – These Electric Vehicles primarily run on petrol or diesel, but they’re also fitted with an electric battery. One can charge the battery through regenerative braking. It comes with a button that lets you switch from using a fuel engine to using an electric battery (EV mode.)
- Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs)– these vehicles use a highly efficient electrochemical process to convert hydrogen into electricity, and it powers the electric motor.
4. Initiatives by the Government
The government has set a target of 30% new sales of electric vehicles and two-wheelers by 2030. The government is working towards it by following the initiative and various government schemes.
National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP)
- It is a road map/document for India’s fuel security by promoting and faster adoption of electric vehicles in India with the initial allocation of Rs 75 crore. The ambition is to have around 6 million vehicles on the road by 2020.
- This plan is for affordable and environmentally friendly transportation in the country and to achieve automotive leadership in global manufacturing.
Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (hybrid and) electric vehicles (FAME)
- The scheme was announced by the government in 2015 with the objective of market creation and developing a manufacturing ecosystem with sustainable development.
- It is formulated by the Department of Heavy Industry, having 4 key areas- technology creation, demand creation, pilot projects, and infrastructure related to charging.
Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (hybrid and) electric vehicles (FAME) II
- Based on the result and experience of phase I of the scheme, phase II was launched with an allocation of Rs 10000 Crore over three years, recently approved by the cabinet.
- This scheme vision a holistic approach to the EV industry, including infrastructure for charging, manufacturing of batteries, market creation, public demand, and push for EVs in public transport.
- It also offers incentives to the manufacturer of electric vehicles and their components.
- It enables the creation of charging infrastructure in selected cities and major highways at an interval of 25 km.
5. Electric Vehicle Policy, 2020
Electric Vehicle Policy 2020 has been announced by the Delhi Government, where it put emphasis on the replacement of two-wheelers, shared vehicles, public transport, and private four-wheelers with Electric Vehicles. Some of the Features of EV Policy 2020 are given below:
- As per Electric Vehicle Policy, the focus is given to e-mobility, which includes e-buses and e-autos.
- The government has decided to give low-interest loans so that people can purchase Electric Vehicles easily.
- The main goal of the E-Vehicle Policy in India is to reduce pollution and curb health issues in Delhi.
- State EV Fund will be introduced for the expenditure of EV Policy.
6. Challenges in promoting Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Adoption
- Subsidy Limitations: In contrast to countries like Norway, where extensive subsidies have spurred BEV adoption, India's subsidy structure primarily benefits the middle or upper middle classes. This inequality raises concerns about the effectiveness and fairness of upfront purchase subsidies, which tend to benefit those who can afford BEVs.
- Charging Network: Investing in comprehensive charging infrastructure is crucial for driving BEV adoption. Countries like Norway and China have seen success by expanding public charging stations while providing purchase subsidies. However, India's charging infrastructure remains insufficient, particularly for two- and three-wheelers, which dominate the vehicle mix. Adapting charging strategies to accommodate different vehicle types and power requirements is essential for promoting widespread adoption.
- Electricity Source: India's reliance on coal-fired thermal plants for electricity generation poses a challenge to the potential environmental benefits of BEVs. While EVs may reduce tailpipe emissions, continued reliance on thermal plants contributes to pollution. Shifting towards renewable energy sources is necessary to mitigate these concerns and achieve cleaner electric mobility.
- Limited Access to the Global Lithium Value Chain: India's heavy reliance on imports for lithium-ion batteries raises concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities. The concentration of global lithium production and key battery components in a handful of countries creates dependency risks. Diversification of the country's battery technology and exploring alternative options to lithium-ion batteries is crucial for long-term sustainability.
- Technology Agnostic Approach: While BEVs have gained traction in the two-wheeler and three-wheeler segments, the four-wheeler segment lags behind. Governments must adopt a technology-agnostic approach that encourages the adoption of various electrification technologies, including hybrids and fuel-cell vehicles. Such an approach promotes innovation, fosters competition, and allows manufacturers to meet emissions objectives irrespective of technology.
- Exploring Alternative Technologies: Hybrids serve as an intermediate step toward full electrification, offering improved fuel efficiency without relying solely on charging infrastructure. Additionally, exploring flex-fuel vehicles running on multiple fuel types, fuel cell electric vehicles, hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicles, and synthetic fuels can provide alternative options for reducing emissions and promoting sustainable mobility.
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For Prelims: Electric Vehicles, Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), Electric Vehicle Policy, 2020, National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP), Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (hybrid and) electric vehicles (FAME), Global Lithium Value Chain.
For Mains: 1. Analyze the challenges and opportunities in promoting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in developing countries like India. Discuss the key factors that hinder EV penetration and propose strategies to overcome them.(250 Words)
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Previous year Question1. Which of the following Indian States/Union Territories launched Electric Vehicle Policy on 7th August 2020? (UPPSC 2020)A. Madhya Pradesh
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Delhi
D. Tamil Nadu
Answer: C
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Source: The Indian Express
SHANGHAI COOPERATION ORGANISATION
1. Context
Pakistan is hosting the meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which comprises nine full members, including China, India, Iran and Russia, and is scheduled for October 15 and 16 in Islamabad.
2. About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
- The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Eurasian political, economic, international security and defence organisation.
- It is the world's largest regional organization in terms of geographic scope and population, covering approximately 60% of the area of Eurasia, and 40% of the world's population. Its combined GDP is around 20% of global GDP.
- The SCO was founded in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
2.1. Structure
The SCO has several bodies that oversee its activities, including
- The Council of Heads of State, which is the supreme decision-making body of the SCO.
- The Council of Heads of Government, which is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the decisions of the Council of Heads of State.
- The Council of Foreign Ministers, which is responsible for coordinating the foreign policies of the SCO member states.
- The Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS), which is responsible for combating terrorism, separatism and extremism in the SCO region and
- The SCO Secretariat, which is responsible for the day-to-day running of the organization.
2.2. Members
- The SCO has eight full members China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
- It also has six observer states Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran, Mongolia, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
- And six dialogue partners Armenia, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Egypt, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
2.3. Goals
- Political and security cooperation, including the fight against terrorism, separatism and extremism
- Economic cooperation, including trade, investment, energy and transportation
- Cultural and humanitarian cooperation and
- Coordination of positions on major international issues.
3. Criticism
- The SCO has been criticized by some for being a tool of Chinese and Russian imperialism.
- However, the organization has also been praised for its role in promoting stability and security in Central Asia.
4. The Way Forward
- The SCO has been expanding its membership in recent years, and it may continue to do so in the future.
- The organization is seen by some as a potential rival to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and its growing influence is being watched closely by the United States and its allies.
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For Prelims: SCO, NATO, India, Central Asia, United States, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, terrorism,
For Mains:
1. Examine the potential challenges and opportunities for India as a full member of the SCO, highlighting its implications for India's political, economic, and security interests. (250 Words)
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Previous Year Questions
1. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Heads of State Summit was held on 10th November, 2020 in the video conference format. The Summit was hosted by: (OPSC OAS 2021)
A. Russia B. India C. Kazakhstan D. Uzbekistan
Answer: A
2. The Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was hosted by which country from 15-16 September 2022? (Rajasthan CET 2023)
A. Kazakhstan B. Tajikistan C. Uzbekistan D. India
Answer: C
3. The area known as 'Golan Heights' sometimes appears in the news in the context of the events related to (UPSC 2015)
A. Central Asia B. Middle East C. South-East Asia D. Central Africa
Answer: B
4. Siachen Glacier is situated to the (UPSC 2020)
A. East of Aksai Chin B. East of Leh C. North of Gilgit D. North of Nubra Valley
Answer: D
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Source: SCO
NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY ORGANISATION (NATO)
1. Context
Lithuanians voted on Sunday in an election likely to change the government but keep much else the same, including the NATO and EU member’s strong support for Ukraine and moves to bolster defence policy
2. Why was NATO established?
NATO, established on April 4, 1949, is a Western security alliance comprising 12 original members: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
The alliance was formed by signing the Washington Treaty, deriving its authority from Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, which upholds the inherent right of independent states to individual or collective defense.
Central to NATO is the principle of "collective security," where an attack on any member nation is viewed as an attack on all, necessitating collective response. This principle emerged from the Cold War context of the late 1940s, amid the rivalry between the USSR and the US over ideological and economic dominance. Article 5 of the Washington Treaty, addressing collective security, was introduced to counter the perceived threat of Soviet expansionism beyond Eastern Europe. In response, the USSR formed the Warsaw Pact in 1955, uniting socialist countries as allies.
However, invoking Article 5 does not mandate uniform military action by all member states. The extent of intervention is determined by each country "as it deems necessary." To date, the only instance of Article 5 being activated was in response to the September 11, 2001 attacks on the US, leading to NATO's deployment in Afghanistan for nearly two decades
3. Who are NATO’s members today?
In addition to the initial 12 members, subsequent additions to NATO's membership include Greece and Turkey in 1952, West Germany in 1955 (later recognized as Germany), Spain in 1982, the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland in 1999, followed by Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia in 2004, Albania and Croatia in 2009, Montenegro in 2017, North Macedonia in 2020, Finland in 2023, and Sweden in 2024.
A surge of new members joined in 1999, a few years after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, prompting concerns about the alliance's potential obsolescence due to the absence of its original purpose
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4.What challenges does NATO face today?
- During the 2019 commemoration of NATO's 70th anniversary, notable tensions arose among member nations.
- President Donald Trump of the United States emphasized the necessity for countries to increase their military expenditures.
- This call stemmed from a 2014 agreement among NATO members to allocate a minimum of 2 percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to defense spending, a commitment made following Russia's annexation of Crimea.
- However, only a handful of nations met this threshold, prompting criticism from President Trump who deemed it unfair, particularly to countries such as the US that were fulfilling their spending obligations. By 2023, among the 30 member countries at the time, only 11 exceeded the stipulated limit.
- One significant catalyst for increased defense spending was the Russian invasion of Ukraine the preceding year. Even traditionally neutral countries in foreign policy, such as Finland and Sweden, found appeal in the concept of collective security in response to Russia's assertive actions.
- Despite NATO's "open door" policy toward membership, the admission of new applicants requires unanimous approval from all member states. Turkey hesitated to support the applications of Sweden and Finland due to past criticisms from their politicians regarding Turkey's human rights record. Turkey also accused these nations of harboring "terrorists"
5. Way Forward
Although the Ukraine-Russia war seems to have given NATO a new focus area to converge at, funding the war has again become a source of disagreements among members, much to Ukraine’s displeasure. Just this year, Secretary-General Stoltenberg said a plan was being formulated so that 18 NATO would meet the 2 per cent limit by the end of 2024
Source: Indianexpress
QUAD
1. Context
Calling for the restoration of peace and stability in Eurasia and West Asia at the earliest, PM Narendra Modi noted that the most negatively affected countries due to ongoing conflicts in various parts of the world are those from the Global South. Delivering his remarks at the 19th East Asia Summit in Laos on Friday, Modi reiterated that solutions to problems cannot come from the battlefield.
2. Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD)
- The Quad, short for the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, is a strategic forum comprising four major Indo-Pacific countries: the United States, Japan, India, and Australia.
- The Quad was initiated in 2007 but was relatively dormant for several years before experiencing a revival and increased prominence in recent times.
3. Objectives
- The Quad aims to promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. Its core objectives include ensuring regional security, stability, and economic prosperity.
- It seeks to uphold the rules-based international order and address common challenges such as maritime security, infrastructure development, economic connectivity, and disaster response.
4. Member Countries
- United States: As a major Pacific power, the U.S. plays a central role in the Quad, emphasizing its commitment to the Indo-Pacific region's security and stability.
- Japan: Japan is a key member, contributing its economic and technological prowess, and advocating for a rules-based international order.
- India: India brings its strategic location and growing influence in the Indo-Pacific to the Quad, strengthening regional security cooperation.
- Australia: Australia is a significant player, contributing to maritime security efforts and championing economic development in the Indo-Pacific.
5. Meetings and Engagement
- The Quad holds regular meetings at various levels, including ministerial meetings and consultations among senior officials.
- It engages in dialogues on a wide range of regional and global issues, from security and defense to infrastructure development and technology cooperation.
Regional Implications:
- The Quad has been viewed as a response to China's rising influence in the Indo-Pacific. However, member countries emphasize that it is not an alliance against any specific country but rather a platform for cooperation on shared interests.
- Some view the Quad as a potential counterbalance to China's assertive behavior in the South China Sea and its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) infrastructure projects.
Expanding Partnerships:
- The Quad has sought to expand its partnerships with other countries in the Indo-Pacific, including Southeast Asian nations. This approach reflects its commitment to inclusivity and regional engagement.
6. Significance of QUAD for India
The Quad holds significant importance for India due to several strategic, economic, and geopolitical reasons:
Countering Regional Challenges:
- The Quad provides India with a platform to collaborate with like-minded countries, such as the United States, Japan, and Australia, to address common regional challenges. These challenges include maritime security, territorial disputes, and economic concerns in the Indo-Pacific.
Strengthening Regional Security:
- As a member of the Quad, India gains access to enhanced security cooperation, intelligence sharing, and joint exercises. This bolsters its ability to protect its interests and contribute to regional stability in the face of security threats.
Balancing China's Influence:
- India views the Quad as a mechanism to balance China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific. It helps deter aggressive actions and assertive behavior by China, particularly in areas like the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean region.
Economic Opportunities:
- The Quad promotes economic connectivity and infrastructure development in the Indo-Pacific. India can leverage these initiatives to enhance its trade, investment, and connectivity in the region, which is vital for its economic growth.
Strengthening Ties with Key Allies:
- The Quad allows India to deepen its strategic partnerships with key allies, such as the United States and Japan. These relationships have resulted in increased defense cooperation, technology sharing, and economic collaboration.
Regional Leadership Role:
- Participation in the Quad elevates India's status as a regional leader in the Indo-Pacific. It aligns with India's "Act East" policy, reinforcing its commitment to the stability and prosperity of the broader region.
7. Challenges
- China's Territorial Claims: China claims that it has historical ownership over nearly the entire region of the South China Sea, which gives it the right to manufacture islands. However, the International Court of Arbitration rejected the claim in 2016.
- China's Closeness to ASEAN: The ASEAN countries also have a well-knit relationship with China. The Regional Cooperation Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a recent example of China's increasing influence over ASEAN nations.
- Economic Power of China: Considering the economic might of China and the dependence of QUAD nations like Japan and Australia on China, the QUAD nations can not afford to have strained relations with it.
- Convergence among Quad Nations: The nations in the Quad grouping have different aspirations, and aims at balancing their own interest. Therefore, coherence in the vision of the Quad nation as a grouping is absent.
8. Way forward
The Quad represents a forum for strategic cooperation among four major Indo-Pacific nations, with a focus on regional security, economic development, and upholding the rules-based international order. Its evolving role in the region will likely be a subject of ongoing geopolitical interest and debate.
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For Prelims: Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD), South China Sea, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Indo-Pacific region, ASEAN, and Regional Cooperation Economic Partnership (RCEP).
For Mains: 1. Discuss the evolution, objectives, and geopolitical significance of the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) in the context of the Indo-Pacific region. Analyze the challenges and opportunities it presents for the member countries, particularly India. (250 words).
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Source: The Indian Express
MINIMUM SUPPORT PRICE
1. Context
India’s annual agriculture growth averaged 3.7 per cent during the 10 years that ended 2023-24 under the Narendra Modi government. This was better than the 3.5 per cent during the 10 years of the United Progressive Alliance dispensation, which, in turn, was higher than the 2.9 per cent average of the preceding two decades.
2. What is Minimum Support Price (MSP)?
- MSP is the minimum price a farmer must be paid for their food grains as guaranteed by the government. They are recommended by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) and approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs.
- The CACP submits its recommendations to the government in the form of Price Policy Reports every year.
- After considering the report and views of the state governments and also keeping in view the overall demand and supply situation in the country, the central government takes the final decision.
- Food Corporation of India (FCI) is the nodal agency for procurement along with State agencies, at the beginning of the sowing season.
The minimum support price (MSP) is set for 23 crops every year. They include:
- 7 cereals (paddy, wheat, maize, bajra, jowar, ragi, and barley)
- 5 pulses (chana, tur/arhar, moong, urad, and Masur)
- 7 oilseeds (rapeseed-mustard, groundnut, soya bean, sunflower, sesamum, safflower, and nigerseed) and
- 4 commercial crops (sugarcane, cotton, copra, and raw jute).
3. How MSP is Cauclated?
- MSP, presently, is based on a formula of 1.5 times the production costs.
- The CACP projects three kinds of production costs for every crop, both at state and all-India average levels.
- A2 covers all paid-out costs directly incurred by the farmer — in cash and kind — on seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, hired labor, leased-in land, fuel, irrigation, etc.
- A2+FL includes A2 plus an imputed value of unpaid family labor.
- C2: Estimated land rent and the cost of interest on the money taken for farming are added to A2 and FL.
- Farm unions are demanding that a comprehensive cost calculation (C2) must also include capital assets and the rentals and interest forgone on owned land, as recommended by the National Commission for Farmers.
4. The issue with the calculation of MSP
- To calculate MSP, the government uses A2+FL cost. The criticism of A2+FL is that it doesn’t cover all costs and that a more representative measure, C2, needs to be used.
- For example, in the 2017-18 rabi season, CACP data shows that C2 for wheat was 54% higher than A2+FL.
- The Swaminathan Commission also stated that the MSP should be based on the comprehensive cost of production, which is the C2 method.
5. Key Points about the Farmer's Demand
- After the recent decision to repeal three contentious farm laws, protesting farmer unions are now pressing for their demand of the legalization of the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
- They want a legal guarantee for the MSP, which at present is just an indicative or a desired price.
- Legalising MSP would put the government under a legal obligation to buy every grain of the crops for which MSPs have been announced.
- At present, the PM has announced the formation of a committee to make MSP more transparent, as well as to change crop patterns and to promote zero-budget agriculture which would reduce the cost of production.
- The entire issue of enforcing MSP legally is a tricky, complicated, and multidimensional one, involving lots of factors.
- Core demand: MSP based on a C2+50% formula should be made a legal entitlement for all agricultural produce. This would mean a 34% increase in the latest MSP for paddy and a 13% increase for wheat. MSP should also be extended to fruit and vegetable farmers who have been excluded from benefits so far.
6. The rationale behind the demand for legislation of MSP
- Farmers receive less than MSP: In most crops grown across much of India, the prices received by farmers, especially during harvest time, are well below the officially-declared MSPs. And since MSPs have no statutory backing, they cannot demand these as a matter of right.
- Limited procurement by the Govt: Also, the actual procurement at MSP by the Govt. is confined to only about a third of wheat and rice crops (of which half is bought in Punjab and Haryana alone), and 10%-20% of select pulses and oilseeds. According to the Shanta Kumar Committee’s 2015 report, only 6% of the farm households sell wheat and rice to the government at the MSP rates.
7. Why has the committee been set up?
- It has been constituted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare as a follow-up to an announcement by the Prime Minister when he declared the government’s intention to withdraw the three farm laws.
- The protesting farm unions had demanded a legal guarantee on MSP based on the Swaminathan Commission’s ‘C2+50% formula’ (C2 is a type of cost incurred by farmers;). This was in addition to their demand for repeal of the three farm laws.
8. Committee on MSP, Natural Farming and Crop Diversification
On Minimum Support Price (MSP)
- To suggest measures to make MSP available to farmers by making the systems more effective and transparent,
- Give more autonomy to Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP).
On Natural Farming: To make suggestions for programs and schemes for value chain development, protocol validation, and research for future needs and support for area expansion under the Indian Natural Farming System.
On Crop diversification:
To provide suggestions related to crop diversification including
- Mapping of existing cropping patterns of agro-ecological zones of producer and consumer states,
- Strategy for diversification policy to change the cropping pattern according to the changing needs of the country and
- A system to ensure remunerative prices for the sale of new crops.
9. Why have the protesting farm unions opposed this committee?
- Firstly, this committee includes members who supported the now-repeated farm laws.
- Secondly, the terms and references of the committee do not mention the legal guarantee to MSP. Instead, it mentions making MSP more effective and transparent.
10. Challenges associated with MSP
- Protest by Farmers: Farm unions have been protesting for more than six months on Delhi's outskirts, demanding legislation to guarantee MSP for all farmers for all crops and a repeal of three contentious farm reforms laws.
- MSP and Inflation: When announcing the MSP, inflation should be taken into account. But often the price is not increased up to the mark. For example, this time MSP for Maize has not even considered inflation then how it will benefit farmers! Also, frequent increases in the MSPs can lead to inflation too.
- High Input Costs: The input costs have been rising faster than sale prices, squeezing the meager income of the small farmers and driving them into debt.
- Lack of Mechanism: There is no mechanism that guarantees that every farmer can get at least the MSP as the floor price in the market. So proper mechanisms need to be fixed for all times to come.
- Restriction in Europe: Even after producing surplus grains, every year a huge portion of these grains gets rotten. This is due to the restrictions under WTO norms, that grain stocks with the FCI (being heavily subsidized due to MSP) cannot be exported.
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For Prelims: Minimum Support Price (MSP), World Trade Organisation (WTO), Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP), Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, Food Corporation of India (FCI).
For Mains: 1. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) scheme protects farmers from price fluctuations and market imperfections. In light of the given statement, critically analyze the efficacy of the MSP. (250 Words)
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| Previous year Question
1. Consider the following statements: (UPSC CSE 2020)
1. In the case of all cereals, pulses, and oil seeds, the procurement at Minimum Support Price (MSP) is unlimited in any State/UT of India.
2. In the case of cereals and pulses, the MSP is fixed in any State/UT at a level to which the market price will never rise.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D
2.Which of the following factors/policies were affecting the price of rice in India in the recent past? (UPSC CSE, 2020)
(1) Minimum Support Price (2) Government’s trading (3) Government’s stockpiling (4) Consumer subsidies Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Answer (d)
3.In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? (UPSC GS1, 2020)
(1) Fixing Minimum Support Price for agricultural produce of all crops (2) Computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (3) Social Capital development (4) Free electricity supply to farmers (5) Waiver of agricultural loans by the banking system (6) Setting up of cold storage facilities by the governments. In India, which of the following can be considered as public investment in agriculture? Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 5 only (b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 only (c) 2, 3 and 6 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Answer (c)
4.The Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane is approved by the (UPSC CSE, 2015)
(a) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (b) Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (c) Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, Ministry of Agriculture (d) Agricultural Produce Market Committee Answer (a)
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Source: The Indian Express
